Westerveld stakes his claim as Zaragoza's starting goalkeeper

Real Zaragoza has undergone a major squad overhaul this summer, with the goalkeeper position getting a complete refresh. The club has brought in two contrasting profiles: Dutch keeper Sem Westerveld, who comes with outstanding references, and Anartz Peña, signed at manager Ibai Gómez's explicit request following their time together at Arenas de Getxo in Segunda RFEF last season.

Initially, Ibai's familiarity with Peña and Westerveld's adaptation process gave the Basque keeper the edge in early training. However, performances in friendlies against Logroñés and Villarreal B have completely shifted the dynamic. According to Sport, Westerveld has seized the advantage with displays that clearly position him ahead for the season opener against Nàstic on August 30th.

A defining match

Westerveld's performance against Villarreal B proved decisive: he made saves of every description in the first half against efforts from Bonafer, Baratucci, and Gaitán, plus a strong aerial intervention against Albert García. The Dutchman has shown rapid adaptation to Spanish football and Ibai's system, showcasing comfortable ball-playing ability in the Dutch school tradition. Physically, he outmatches Peña with greater presence and reach, though the Basque keeper is quicker on reflexes between the sticks.

Meanwhile, Anartz Peña has stumbled in the decisive friendlies. He made an error in the Logroñés match that led to Latif Issman's goal, repeating a similar mistake from the previous friendly. Despite his Primera RFEF experience—18 matches last season—his performances have fallen short.

Ibai Gómez made his position clear weeks ago: "There are no established starters in any position; everyone has to earn it every day." Three weeks on, their performances have told the story. Westerveld, who arrived with adaptation concerns according to goalkeeper coach Javi Roda, has progressed steadily: "I'm doing well, I've had time to adapt to football here, I'm improving every week." Two more friendlies remain before the league bow, but everything points to the Dutchman between the sticks at the Nou Estadi.